Finding aid encoded by Elizabeth Traina using the OhioLINK EAD Application in 2011

Origination:

Garramone, Joseph

Extent:

2.33 cubic feet (2 flat oversize boxes, 1 document case)

Physical Location:

11th Floor

Finding Aid Identifier:

OhKeUSC0134

Abstract:

This collection, dating from 1930-1963, contains artwork created by Joseph Garramone as well as correspondence related to his involvement in the Kokoon Arts Club of Cleveland, Ohio.

Language(s):

The records are in English

Biography of Joseph Garramone

Born in Laurenzana, Italy in 1886, Joseph Garramone came to the United States with his family via New York from Naples in 1897. Upon arrival, the family settled in Cleveland, Ohio. Garramone attended grade school in Cleveland and subsequently, attended the Cleveland School of Art from 1904 through his graduation in 1907. He was awarded a scholarship to the New York School of Art and studied there under Robert Henri for two years. In 1909, after completing his education, Garramone returned to Cleveland and was employed at The Otis Lithograph Company, where the premier product of the time was commercial theatrical posters. In 1911, Garramone, along with several other artist colleagues at Otis Lithograph, founded the Kokoon Arts Club. Garramone also produced artwork independently, working from his home studio. His work was exhibited on several occasions in the May Show at the Cleveland Museum of Art. From approximately 1923 to 1948, Garramone and his wife Rose owned and managed The Pengwin, a restaurant, candy counter, bakery and soda fountain, located in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. Garramone died on November 28, 1963.

Scope and Content

This collection includes original artwork created by Joseph Garramone for the Kokoon Arts Club as well as various photographs and correspondence relating to his involvement in the organization. The artwork consists of drawings and paintings that were used as decoration for the Kokoon Arts Club's annual masquerade balls. The bulk of the correspondence dates from between 1949 to 1963, and includes original letters and postcards (some photocopies) from a number of artist acquaintances including William Zorach, August Biehle, Joe and Jerry Jicha, and a more extensive collection of letters from Hugo Robus.

Statement of Arrangement

The Joseph Garramone Kokoon Arts Club collection is organized by series as follows: Series 1: Personal Information; Series 2: Correspondence (with subseries arranged alphabetically by author); Series 3: Photographs; Series 4: Sketches and paintings (arranged chronologically, then alphabetically)

Phone

Street Address

Mailing Address

Email

As a top Ohio undergraduate and graduate school, Kent State's eight campuses offer the resources of a large university with the friendly atmosphere of a liberal arts college. Enroll today to start pursuing your future at one of the best colleges in Ohio. We’ve been educating graduates for over 100 years; join us today.